Diversity and Human Rights Advisor

Dr. Shoemaker is passionate about leading and contributing to initiatives that champion human rights and organizational culture change. She holds a PhD from Queen’s University with specializations in International Relations and Gender. She currently facilitates Canada’s participation in international organizations such as the United Nations, OECD, and APEC with regard to gender equality and intersectionality. Previously, Dr. Shoemaker led human rights and inclusion programs and policies for the Canadian Armed Forces and continues to provide training and education for national militaries, facilitating conversations with members across all ranks on the topics of emotional intelligence, mentorship, and unconscious bias.

Dr. Shoemaker is currently a Research Fellow for the Queen’s University Centre for International and Defence Policy (CIDP). Previously, she led projects related to veteran transition and employment, military mentorship, and Gender Based Analysis Plus through the CIDP Gender Lab.

Dr. Shoemaker takes a collaborative approach to her work, emphasizing consultation, relationship building, and engagement with civil society. Her research interests include intersectionality and the military career cycle (including veteran transition); Canadian foreign and defence policy; the Women, Peace, and Security agenda; and NATO.

Advisory Roles

1. Provide expert advice to support CIMVHR’s military and Veteran health research strategy, knowledge translation, including advice and support to CIMVHR leadership.
2. Provide expert advice to support CIMVHR in the development of appropriate Requests for Proposal.
3. Consult with CIMVHR and other interested parties to advance efforts to promote CIMVHR’s military and Veteran research strategy.
4. Participate in meetings with government, industry and other interested parties (e.g. academia, data holders, labs, etc.).
5. Provide expert advice to military and Veteran health researchers who require expert advice in these areas.